What do you think?
Rate this book
Zuiker Teen Topics
One Shot: A Story of Bullying
“I am known as ‘One Shot,’ because I have just one shot to save any kids who may be going through what I go through every day . . .”
Born with a deforming disease known as CLOVES syndrome, Alex Bruorton has learned to deflect the hurtful comments slung his way and focus on the beautiful, brave person he truly is.
From birth, his illness, which causes severe overgrowth in his face, was painfully evident. He has endured twenty-five surgeries to correct the growths, but nothing lasts for long. At a very young age, he realized he had to accept his face as it is. Fortunately, his family’s fierce love and protection have been constant and impenetrable. But it’s almost impossible to totally shield a child from bullying. Alex went to school, suffered horrible attacks, and returned home, hiding his fear and anger.
Gradually, his family found a way to help him help himself. They enlisted the help of a therapist who showed Alex how to declare a truce on his war with the outside world and learn to open up and talk—about himself, about life, about pain, and about joy.
Today, Alex has friends, is an avid fisherman, and loves his life. Any bullies who come his way are quickly disarmed by his honest, integrity, and humanity.
His story will inspire kids and parents alike.
Zuiker Press is proud to publish stories about important current topics for kids and adolescents, written by their peers, that will help them cope with the challenges they face in today’s troubled world.
Born with a deforming disease known as CLOVES syndrome, Alex Bruorton has learned to deflect the hurtful comments slung his way and focus on the beautiful, brave person he truly is.
From birth, his illness, which causes severe overgrowth in his face, was painfully evident. He has endured twenty-five surgeries to correct the growths, but nothing lasts for long. At a very young age, he realized he had to accept his face as it is. Fortunately, his family’s fierce love and protection have been constant and impenetrable. But it’s almost impossible to totally shield a child from bullying. Alex went to school, suffered horrible attacks, and returned home, hiding his fear and anger.
Gradually, his family found a way to help him help himself. They enlisted the help of a therapist who showed Alex how to declare a truce on his war with the outside world and learn to open up and talk—about himself, about life, about pain, and about joy.
Today, Alex has friends, is an avid fisherman, and loves his life. Any bullies who come his way are quickly disarmed by his honest, integrity, and humanity.
His story will inspire kids and parents alike.
Zuiker Press is proud to publish stories about important current topics for kids and adolescents, written by their peers, that will help them cope with the challenges they face in today’s troubled world.
88 pages, Hardcover
Published June 22, 2021
5 people are currently reading
30 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews
January 31, 2022
Miss Lori read this graphic novel and was deeply moved by the strength and character of the young man who authored the book. The book is the product of an issue-based literary house that "champions the voices of young adult authors"...who have "elected to tell their personal stories and be ambassadors of their cause."
This particular story is written by a 10 year old boy born with a facial deformity. He was brutally bullied in school by students, teachers, and administrators alike. Thoughts of wanting to "becoming invisible" forever, wishing he were "normal", wanting a friend are issues he very realistically brings to his story. It is heartbreaking to read.
He has since learned that his story can help others in similar situations and he has made it his cause to address bullying.
While it is difficult to read due to the subject matter and the realism involved, I believe this is a MUST READ for middle grade children and their parents.
This particular story is written by a 10 year old boy born with a facial deformity. He was brutally bullied in school by students, teachers, and administrators alike. Thoughts of wanting to "becoming invisible" forever, wishing he were "normal", wanting a friend are issues he very realistically brings to his story. It is heartbreaking to read.
He has since learned that his story can help others in similar situations and he has made it his cause to address bullying.
While it is difficult to read due to the subject matter and the realism involved, I believe this is a MUST READ for middle grade children and their parents.
May 15, 2025
A moving memoir told by a young boy with CLOVES syndrome, which causes visible overgrowth of tissues in his face. The first-person narrative and graphic novel format immerse the reader in Alex's experiences. He makes reference to the movie and book, "Wonder," which would make an excellent companion read.
This book is part of a collection of graphic novel memoirs that focus on difficult topics and empathy. Recommended for readers looking for moving and inspirational stories that center the real-life experiences of young people.
This book is part of a collection of graphic novel memoirs that focus on difficult topics and empathy. Recommended for readers looking for moving and inspirational stories that center the real-life experiences of young people.
June 27, 2021
Very inspirational book by a young man who speaks out about bullying!
July 12, 2022
A really sweet and encouraging book, with great drawings.
Displaying 1 - 5 of 5 reviews